Historical information

The queen bee cage is designed to hold a queen bee, and up to three or four escort worker bees. The design allows for adequate ventilation, and has a spot for 'queen candy' -candied honey- to block one end. The queen is placed in her new hive inside the cage, and once the queen candy has been eaten through -allowing her access to the hive- the hive has become accustomed to her smell and accept her. Bees could be sent through the post in this cage.

Physical description

Mesh cage stapled onto top and bottom metal bands. One metal strut running between top and bottom. Base is metal, larger than lid. Lid is wooden, with circular hole.